The touching illusion is an interactive device that uses physical sensations and virtual reality (VR) to help train medical students to identify tumors by touch. Palpation, the application of touch to the surface of the body, is considered an essential clinical skill. As with any skill, it is best learned through repetitive practice with constructive feedback. Unfortunately, many medical students lack access to hands-on learning of this skill. The touching illusion's VR training simulator provides a virtual alternative. It uses virtual and physical feedback to guide users through a series of tumor identification tests. Visual information, delivered through a VR headset, is complemented by physical sensations provided by an interactive model. The game-like experience then provides instant feedback on the user's performance.